As you consider what type of tooth restoration may be right for you, you may be curious to know more about what your tooth replacement options are. Drs. Baker and Jepsen offer many different solutions for restoring missing or failing teeth, from long-lasting and lifelike dental implants to solutions such as fixed bridges and dentures that can replace an entire upper and/or lower arch of your teeth.
At our practice, we are dedicated to finding tooth replacement solutions that match our patient’s desires and conditions so that their oral health is vastly improved along with their well-being and confidence. Every one of our patients is different, so when your oral surgeon meets with you at your consultation appointment, he will work closely with you to create a treatment plan that is best for your smile. Your doctor will also discuss your options for anesthesia at your consultation, such as in-office intravenous (IV) sedation. Some of the most common tooth replacement options include the following:
- Dental Implants. Dental implants are a favorite tooth replacement solution because they are a true replacement, root and all. With dental implants, patients can regain the joy of eating, smiling, and speaking again with complete confidence, with teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. Please visit our Dental Implant page and Dental Implant FAQ to learn more.
- Implant-Supported Dentures and Bridges. When patients come to us seeking a permanent replacement for multiple missing teeth in one or both of their arches, we may recommend implant-supported bridges or dentures. These tooth replacement solutions offer patients new, customized, and realistic teeth — you can even restore all your teeth in both arches using implant-supported dentures! Please see our Implant-Supported Dentures and Bridges page to find out more.
- Tooth-Supported Bridges. Tooth-supported bridges are a very common tooth replacement for one or more missing teeth that are beside each other in the dental arch. This solution bridges the gap created from a missing tooth. Bridges are fixed in your mouth, so they are non-removable and secure, though they will usually need to be replaced every few years. Because the bridge is cemented in place using the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth/teeth, this solution requires that your dentist reshape the teeth that are used to anchor the bridge.
- Full or Partial Dentures. Full or partial dentures are the most well-known solution for missing teeth. They are completely removable and tend to be inexpensive, though after several years of wear, may need to be adjusted or replaced. Many people find dentures satisfactory, but others find them to be uncomfortable and are self-conscious about how they can slip during chewing or speaking.
Tooth Replacement Options in Pocatello and Blackfoot, ID
Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho specializes in dental implant-based tooth restorations at both of our convenient office locations in southeast Idaho. To learn more about your options for tooth replacement and determine which option is right for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons. We look forward to providing you with the best of care as we help you improve your oral health.